RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

My face feels like raw meat today! I have been staying in, only going out to walk the dog. The cold air felt really good this morning. Poor girl that saw me ran the other direction and if it didn’t hurt to laugh I would’ve! I appreciate the supportive messages as I do believe you don’t understand this pain unless you’ve been through it. I thought I was prepared for what it would feel like but I was wrong! I took some time to really look in the mirror today and I have to say it’s crazy to actually see some of the spots being burned away! I’m focusing on the days ahead when my new skin is healed and the only thing I feel is how soft it will be. Never again will will I complain about dry skin! I have learned the lesson to always wear sunscreen but also to wear a hat for further protection. I’m very fair skinned and never took to tanning so this damage is just from being outside for short walks and driving. I wish this treatment on no one and will be glad when it is over! Again thank you for the supportive messages!!

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

It's been a few years since I've had to do this, but reading your words brings back memories as if it were yesterday. I remember not wanting to smile or even eat for fear of cracking my face making it hurt worse and the looks people can give as if they could catch it. Sunscreen is the answer, the hat is the cherry on top. Being under just a hat or umbrella is all, but no protection. There is a sunscreen specifically for people with actinic keratosis it's called ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Altralight Emulsion, but it's only available from your doctor and it's not cheap, at my doctor's office it's $55.00 for a 3.4 oz. Before this was suggested to me I used Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry -Touch Sunscreen SPF 100+ WalMart carries it. Cost Co usually carries same brand but SPF 55. I personally went with the 100+ I wouldn't put anything on your skin right now since you're still raw, just stay out of the sun. Morning, before 10:00 AM and after 5:00 AM is the best. Happy days are here again!

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

Thank you for all the support!! My face is healed and I feel so much better! Still getting work out quicker than normal face is red in spots but no pain! Using sunscreen everyday! This was a brutal treatment and I’m so glad it’s behind me. Again thank you for the encouragement!

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

Congratulations! Remember to use sunscreen year round even in the winter. Don't forget your neck, chest, arms, and hands too. At night you might want to try CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. It has 3 different ceramides which your skins needs. Keep your skin hydrated as it's been through a war. Now it's time for some "R & R" The redness will go away slowly and you'll be left with baby soft skin. Don't forget about your dermatologist he/she might want to check you in a few months and then yearly.

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

Yes definitely sunscreen everyday! I’ll order some CereVe right now! I used Egyptian Magic during the treatment and it worked wonders. I know I need to probably do a whole body scan with the dermatologist, kinda scared but it needs to be done. Everything is closed now but as soon as things go back to normal that’s the plan! I’m so glad to finally feel normal and I can smile again.

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

I didn’t even have a reaction the first week. I’m sure everyone is a little different but 2 times a day for 14-21 days seems to be the norm! There’s lots of good info on this page and many people here for support and encouragement!

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

Thank you for your information. I was presribed to apply it for only a week. Why are some people applying it for three weeks?

Hi! It all depends upon when you reach the "erosion stage." For me, some treatments took 3 weeks. For others it was only 1 week or 10 days. Going beyond the stage where you are cracked and bleeding is only more painful, but does not increase the value of the treatment.

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

I too find one week to be much shorter than normal. Will you doctor have you repeat the treatment again after a week? I used to do the full 4 weeks but I find now that I reach the eroision stage in about 10 days on my face but 3 or more weeks on my hands, chest or legs. I think I would confirm with your doctor that he/she wants you to apply for only one week.

RE: Lessons learned and tips on using Efudex or Carac

I've never seen/read of anyone only using Effudex for one week, but I have known those that have had to use it for six weeks. Some people have to do the treatment every six months. Treatment time is based on the damage to your skin. Each time I've done it I've had to do it for almost the whole four weeks, but each time it's less and less damage.